As Long As It Is Not A Nest Of Corruption, The Free Nutrition Eating Program Is Beneficial For Underprivileged Students

The implementation of the Free Nutrition Food Trial in Samarinda in December 2024. (ANTARA PHOTO/M Risyal Hidayat)

Education observer from Mulawarman University Samarinda Professor Susilo stated that the Free Nutrition Food (MBG) program which will start gradually in East Kalimantan on January 13, 2025 is considered beneficial for students from underprivileged families.

"This MBG program is very important, especially for students in suburban schools and public schools in cities where not a few students come from underprivileged families," Susilo told Antara in Samarinda, Saturday.

He emphasized that the priority of distributing the MBG program should be given to schools with the majority of underprivileged students.

"Vocational schools are generally filled by students from capable families, so priority should be given to schools in areas with lower economic levels of society," he explained.

Professor Susilo highlighted the positive impact of MBG on the aspect of education. According to him, children who study with full stomach conditions will be more focused and enthusiastic than when they are hungry," he said.

Susilo added that adequate nutritional intake can increase concentration, memory, and student learning stamina.

Furthermore, he added that MBG also had a positive impact on students' psychological conditions.

"With the guarantee of eating at school, students from underprivileged families no longer need to worry about snacks anymore. They can focus more on learning without thinking about family financial problems," he explained.

Susilo also highlighted the importance of strict supervision in the distribution of funds and implementation of the MBG program. Funds disbursed by the government must be managed transparently and closely monitored to prevent potential corruption.

"Clayered supervision must be carried out from the central to regional levels," he said.

He emphasized the importance of choosing program managers who have a good track record and high integrity. Susilo reminded that this best program should not become a hotbed of corruption because of poor management.